Carson Kelly has emerged as a key contributor to the Chicago Cubs' recent success, evidenced by a remarkable performance where he hit two home runs and drove in five runs, contributing to an exhilarating 13-11 comeback victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Cubs' bottom of the batting order, including Kelly, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Miguel Amaya, has garnered significant attention as they consistently produce runs, leading the MLB in scoring with an average of 6.3 runs per game.
This surge in performance is a stark contrast to their struggles last season, and Cubs management has noted this turnaround. Kelly's impressive OPS stands at 1.413 in 14 games, showcasing his potential after transitioning from his previous team. Crow-Armstrong and Amaya have also demonstrated notable improvements, which have collectively strengthened the Cubs' lineup and positioned them at the forefront of the league's offensive statistics.
Notably, the Cubs have achieved a unique milestone by becoming the first team in MLB history to have 35 home runs and 35 stolen bases within the first 25 games of the season. The depth of their offensive lineup has allowed them to remain competitive, even as other key players, like Dansby Swanson, have struggled. Furthermore, the positive dynamic among the younger players, highlighted by their ability to generate runs consistently, has instilled a sense of optimism for the Cubs moving forward.